Car Hire
Alaska

Arriving late at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) is common, and car hire facilities are well prepared for after-hours collections. The airport is well lit and signage to the rental car centre is clear and easy to follow. Roads leading away from the airport towards the city centre are main thoroughfares with good lighting, making the initial drive straightforward even in the dark. It’s sensible to drive cautiously, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area, but you can expect a relatively low-stress exit from the airport complex.

The most direct and user-friendly route from the airport to downtown Anchorage is via International Airport Road, which flows directly onto Minnesota Drive. From Minnesota Drive, you take a simple right onto 6th Avenue, one of the main east–west streets through the heart of downtown. This route avoids complex interchanges and keeps you on well-marked, multi-lane roads for most of the short drive. Using a sat nav will make it even simpler, as this path is the standard and most efficient way to reach the central hotel district.

When heading south from Anchorage towards Girdwood or Seward on a weekday, planning for rush hour is essential. The afternoon peak, typically from 15:30 to 18:00, can cause significant congestion on the Seward Highway as it leaves the city. To be safe, add at least 30 to 45 minutes to your expected travel time to clear the main Anchorage area. Once you pass the Potter Marsh weigh station, traffic usually begins to flow more freely.

Driving the Seward Highway during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn means preparing for unpredictable weather, which can range from sunny to snowy in a single day. While most hire vehicles come with all-season tyres, a vehicle with all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) can provide valuable extra stability on potentially slick or slushy road surfaces. The most important factor, however, is your driving behaviour: always reduce speed, increase following distance, and be gentle with braking and acceleration when conditions are uncertain.

The drive from Anchorage to Seward is about 127 miles, a distance most hire cars can easily cover on a single tank. For peace of mind, it’s best to start with a full tank in Anchorage. You will find reliable petrol stations in towns along the way, including Girdwood and Cooper Landing, but their opening hours can be limited in the evening, especially outside the peak summer season. To avoid concerns, simply top up your tank in Anchorage before you depart, which will ensure you can reach Seward without needing to stop for fuel.

A great one-way day plan from Anchorage to the Denali area involves an early start to maximise daylight. Your first major stop could be the charming town of Talkeetna, which requires a short detour off the Parks Highway but is well worth it for its classic Alaskan character and potential mountain views. Further north, Denali Viewpoint South at mile 135 offers an iconic photo opportunity. As you get closer, plan a final stop at the Denali National Park entrance sign for a picture before checking into your accommodation, making for a scenic and efficient travel day.

When driving to ANC for an early flight from Eagle River or Palmer, timing depends heavily on road conditions and the time of year. From Eagle River, the drive is typically about 20–30 minutes in clear conditions, so allowing 45 minutes is a safe buffer. From Palmer, the drive is closer to an hour, so plan for at least 75–90 minutes. In winter, check road reports for snow or ice, as this can significantly slow traffic on the Glenn Highway and add substantial time to your journey.

To manage a large group and luggage efficiently at the ANC rental car centre, designate one or two drivers to collect the vehicle first. The rest of the group can wait with the luggage in the baggage claim area or a designated passenger waiting zone. Once the drivers have the car, they can circle back to the terminal’s passenger pick-up curb to load everyone and their bags. This approach prevents congestion in the rental car garage and makes the loading process much smoother and quicker for everyone.

A winter drive from Anchorage to the Matanuska Glacier requires careful planning around limited daylight and potential weather hazards. With only a few hours of daylight in deep winter, plan to leave Anchorage early to arrive at the glacier with enough light to enjoy it. The Glenn Highway is generally well maintained, but snowstorms can cause temporary closures or require slower speeds, so always check the Alaska 511 road condition report before you set off. Be prepared for icy patches, especially in shaded corners, and ensure your vehicle is equipped for winter driving.

Summer is road construction season in Alaska, and the Seward Highway along Turnagain Arm is frequently affected. Expect potential delays from lane closures, reduced speed limits, and flaggers directing traffic, especially on weekdays. These works can add anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes to your drive towards Portage or Whittier. It’s wise to check the Alaska 511 website for active construction zones before you leave Anchorage and build extra time into your schedule to accommodate any slowdowns, ensuring a relaxed and safe journey.

Moose are a common and serious hazard on roads in and around Anchorage, particularly at dawn and dusk when they are most active and hardest to see. Be especially vigilant on the Glenn and Seward Highways, as well as roads near wooded areas like Kincaid Park. These large, dark animals do not have reflective eyes and can step into the road unexpectedly. The best safety practice is to reduce your speed in low light, actively scan the sides of the road well ahead, and be prepared to brake firmly rather than swerve.

The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is a single‑lane tunnel that alternates between vehicle and train traffic, operating to a strict timetable. To reach Whittier you must time your arrival at the tunnel entrance for a specific opening, which typically occurs once per hour. Before leaving Anchorage, check the official tunnel schedule online for your travel date. Missing your desired opening means waiting for the next one, so plan to arrive at the staging area about 15 minutes before the scheduled opening.

When driving from Anchorage for a timed tour in Whittier, it’s crucial to build in a generous time buffer. First, allow for the drive itself, which is about 90 minutes without stops or traffic. Next, factor in the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel schedule, aiming to catch a tunnel opening that gets you to Whittier at least 45–60 minutes before your tour’s check‑in time. This buffer accommodates potential traffic delays on the Seward Highway and ensures you won’t miss your boat due to a mistimed tunnel arrival.

The drive from Anchorage to Homer is one of Alaska’s most scenic and straightforward road trips. Take the Seward Highway south from Anchorage, a designated National Scenic Byway that winds along the coast of Turnagain Arm. Just past the turnoff for Seward, continue straight as the road becomes the Sterling Highway. This road will take you all the way to Homer, passing through towns like Cooper Landing and Soldotna. The route is well paved and clearly signed, making it an excellent choice for a first-time driver in the state.

To explore the Kenai Peninsula efficiently from Anchorage, the best route is to drive south on the Seward Highway directly to Seward first. After enjoying that area, backtrack a short distance to the Sterling Highway junction and then drive south‑west to Homer. On your return from Homer you can drive the entire Sterling and Seward Highways back to Anchorage. This plan allows you to see the stunning Turnagain Arm twice but avoids needlessly retracing the specific leg between the highway junction and Seward.

The drive between Anchorage and Seward is packed with convenient and scenic stopping points right along the highway. For impressive views and photo opportunities there are numerous pull‑outs along Turnagain Arm. The town of Girdwood offers cafés, a petrol station and restrooms just a minute off the main road. Further south, the Canyon Creek rest area provides basic facilities, and the Summit Lake Lodge is a popular spot for a snack or coffee with beautiful mountain scenery visible from the car park.

The stretch of the Parks Highway through the Nenana River Canyon, just south of the Denali National Park entrance, is scenic but winding and often busy. When encountering slower‑moving RVs or coaches, patience is key. The road has limited passing zones, so only overtake in designated areas where you have long, clear sightlines of oncoming traffic. Never pass on a blind bend or solid yellow line. Many local RV drivers are courteous and will use pull‑outs to let faster traffic by when it’s safe to do so.

Rain and fog are common along Turnagain Arm and can significantly reduce visibility, making the scenic drive more challenging. When conditions are poor, reduce your speed, switch on your headlights, and increase your following distance. When using roadside pull‑outs for views, signal early and be extremely cautious when pulling off and re‑joining the highway, as other drivers may have difficulty seeing you. It’s better to skip a viewpoint than to make an unsafe manoeuvre in low visibility.

While Anchorage is generally easy to navigate, some areas can be tricky for a sat nav. The interchanges between the Seward Highway and Glenn Highway can be complex, with multiple ramps and exits in close succession, so it helps to know your next turn in advance. Additionally, summer construction can lead to sudden detours that may not be updated on all mapping services. It’s a good idea to review your route on a map before you start, especially when leaving the city, to get a better sense of the major highway transitions.

For families driving out of Anchorage, there are several great places for a kid‑friendly break. Heading south on the Seward Highway, the Potter Marsh boardwalk offers a safe and engaging walk to look for birds. The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center near Portage is a fantastic stop where children can see native animals in a spacious, natural setting. If you’re driving north on the Glenn Highway, the Eklutna Lakeside Trail has easy access and plenty of room for children to stretch their legs by the water.

When taking a day trip from Anchorage, it’s sensible to pack for self‑sufficiency, as services can be sparse. Always bring extra layers of clothing, including a waterproof jacket, as weather can change rapidly. Pack plenty of water and snacks, more than you think you’ll need. It’s also wise to have a portable phone charger or power bank, as using sat nav can drain your battery. Finally, download offline maps of your route — crucial for navigating areas with no mobile signal.

Mobile coverage outside of Anchorage and other major towns is often unreliable or non‑existent, so preparation is key. Before you leave, download offline maps of your entire planned route using your preferred navigation app. This ensures your GPS will continue to work without a data connection. It’s also good practice to let someone know your itinerary and expected arrival time. For added peace of mind, carry a paper road map of Alaska as a reliable backup.

Major events like the Iditarod ceremonial start or the Fur Rendezvous festival bring significant road closures and parking challenges to downtown Anchorage. Expect key streets, especially around 4th and 5th Avenues, to be blocked off for parades and race activities. Parking becomes extremely limited, with public garages and on‑street spaces filling up very early. The best strategy is to park further away from the event core and walk, or use public transport or ride‑sharing to avoid the traffic and parking frustration.

If your downtown Anchorage hotel has challenging or costly parking, using public parking garages is an excellent alternative. The city operates several large, centrally located garages, such as the JCPenney Garage or the 5th & B Garage, which offer hourly and daily rates. These are often easier to navigate than tight hotel garages and can be more cost‑effective. Once parked, downtown Anchorage is very walkable, allowing you to leave your car and explore the main attractions on foot.

For a spectacular single‑day hire from Anchorage, a drive south along the Seward Highway is unbeatable. Drive the scenic stretch along Turnagain Arm, stopping at viewpoints such as Beluga Point. Continue to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see guaranteed wildlife, then head towards Portage Valley to see Byron Glacier or Portage Lake. This route packs iconic Alaskan mountains, coastline and wildlife into a manageable and breathtaking day trip without requiring excessive driving.

Yes, parking at popular trailheads near Anchorage can be very competitive during peak summer weekends. The car park for Flattop Mountain, one of the city’s most famous hikes, often fills by mid‑morning on sunny days. Similarly, the lot at the Eagle River Nature Center can reach capacity, especially during events or holidays. To secure a spot, your best bet is to arrive early in the morning, before 09:00, or consider visiting on a weekday when crowds are generally smaller.

The Seward Highway, particularly the stretch along Turnagain Arm, is known for strong crosswinds that can be challenging for any driver. High‑profile vehicles like larger SUVs or vans are more susceptible to being pushed by gusts. The most exposed sections are where the highway runs right along the coast with no trees to break the wind. When it’s windy, reduce your speed, keep both hands firmly on the wheel, and be prepared for sudden gusts, especially when coming around points or headlands.

For comfortable day trips from Anchorage, a driving radius of about 60–75 miles offers a fantastic range of experiences without feeling rushed. This allows you to explore destinations like the scenic Turnagain Arm down to Portage Glacier, visit the Eagle River Nature Center, or drive part of the Glenn Highway towards the Knik River Valley. These trips typically involve no more than 1.5 to 2 hours of driving each way, leaving plenty of time for sightseeing, short walks and lunch before heading back to the city.

Anchorage has several multi‑lane roundabouts that can be unfamiliar to some visitors. The most important rule is to give way to all traffic already circulating in the roundabout before you enter. Once inside, traffic in the roundabout has priority. A common mistake is stopping within the roundabout to let other cars enter, which is incorrect and can cause accidents. Always choose your lane before entering based on your intended exit and maintain a steady, predictable speed as you navigate through it.

Driving under the midnight sun is a unique experience, but it can disrupt your internal clock. Even with constant daylight, your body still operates on its own rhythm, so it’s crucial to be well rested before you start a late‑night drive. Plan to take frequent breaks to stretch and get fresh air, just as you would on any long trip. Stay hydrated and have some snacks on hand. If you feel any signs of fatigue, pull over in a safe place to rest; don’t rely on the brightness to keep you awake.

The drive from Anchorage to Valdez is a long but stunning journey, best enjoyed with planned stops. A great place to break up the trip is at Glennallen, roughly the halfway point and with services for fuel and food. The most dramatic part of the drive is Thompson Pass, just before Valdez. To drive this section in optimal conditions, plan to cross it during the middle of the day for the best light and visibility. This approach makes the 6–7 hour drive more manageable and allows you to fully appreciate the incredible scenery.

For a balanced drive from Anchorage to Fairbanks, plan on it being a full day of travel. The route via the Parks Highway is direct, taking about 6–7 hours without stops. To mix in scenery, make your first major stop at Denali Viewpoint South for a chance to see the mountain. A good midway point for lunch and fuel is the small community of Healy, just north of the Denali National Park entrance. This breaks the long drive into more manageable segments and ensures you see the most iconic highlights along the way.

Anchorage offers several excellent drives for a half‑day of autumn colour viewing, typically best in late August and early September. A drive up the Glenn Highway towards Eklutna or Palmer provides beautiful vistas of golden birch and aspen trees against the Chugach Mountains. Another fantastic option is driving up to the Glen Alps trailhead for a panoramic view of the city and surrounding valleys ablaze in autumn hues. Both options are easily accessible and provide a full dose of fall scenery within a few hours.

When driving on Alaska’s scenic highways, safety is paramount when stopping for photos. For one‑lane bridges, always yield to oncoming traffic if signage indicates they have right of way. When using gravel pull‑outs, signal your intention early and slow down gradually before leaving the pavement. Ensure your vehicle is pulled completely off the road and is not obstructing traffic. Be cautious when re‑entering the highway, waiting for a large gap in traffic before you merge back on.

When camping near Anchorage, consider that many public campground access roads can be unpaved and occasionally rough. While most are accessible to standard passenger cars, having a vehicle with slightly higher clearance, such as an SUV, can be beneficial for navigating potholes or uneven surfaces. It’s always a good idea to carry your own supply of drinking water, as not all campgrounds have potable water available, or the taps may be located far from your pitch. Arriving with full water jugs ensures you’re prepared.

Coordinating a multi‑car departure from Anchorage is easiest if you designate a nearby meeting point just outside the airport. A good strategy is to have everyone meet at a large, easy‑to‑find car park, such as a supermarket or a public park like Kincaid Park. This allows each driver to collect their hire car and navigate out of the airport complex at their own pace. Once everyone has gathered, you can have a quick briefing and depart together for your destination without the stress of trying to follow each other through airport traffic.

Before returning your hire car at ANC after a long trip, it’s helpful to do a quick clear‑out to ensure a smooth return process. Find a petrol station or car park a few miles from the airport to do a final sweep. The main checklist should include gathering all personal belongings from the glovebox, door pockets and under the seats. Collect and dispose of any rubbish, such as food wrappers or empty bottles. Finally, check the boot thoroughly to make sure no luggage or gear has been left behind.